Work-Based Learning (WBL) creates educational partnerships between PAHCC and local employers that benefit both students and the community. WBL partnerships encourage employers and nonprofits to start the process of attracting high-quality recruits to their organizations and they play a key role in meeting our mission by expanding opportunities for students and contributing to workforce development.

 

Work-Based Learning  (WBL) is governed by the State of Vermont's Agency of Education (AOE).  The AOE categorizes WBL into four primary categories:  Job Shadowing, Career Work Experience, Cooperative Technical Education, and Registered Apprenticeships. 

 

Examples of Job Shadowing, which is strictly observational, include: 

• One-time meetings with industry professionals that allow students to talk in-depth about their interests and to learn about opportunities in their field(s) of interest.

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• Half-day or day long visits to a company in the career sector a student is interested in. It’s a chance to observe how a job is performed and to sample company culture. Job shadows often lead to other WBL opportunities.

 

Examples of Career Work Experience, which is always unpaid, include: 

• On-site learning experiences that emphasize skill development and acquisition for the students. Can range from a  couple weeks to several months. Clinical rotations required for certifications and licensures are considered Career Work Experience.

• Independent projects generating deliverables that can be done remotely, on-site, or in a hybrid fashion for businesses and organizations.  

 

Cooperative Technical Education, commonly known as Co-op, is: 

• Paid employment that allows for students to use and build on skills directly related to their program of study. Job placements align with specific program curriculum and students must be 16 years or older to participate.

 

Registered Apprenticeships are when students participate in a registered apprenticeship program recognized by the Vermont Department of Labor.  They include work experience which entails on the job training and related classroom instruction. Currently registered apprenticeships are only available in plumbing, electrical, and early childhood education. 

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Please contact WBL Coordinator Jess Danyow for more information.  Jdanyow@pahcc.org or 802-382-1029.